Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s opening remarks as chair of the 18th BRICS Summit placed a strong emphasis on giving the Global South a greater voice.
Published: September 12, 2026, 3:43 PM IST
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PM Modi speaks at BRICS Summit in New DelhiScreengrab/ANI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday stressed the changing role of the Global South from a ‘rule taker’ to a ‘rule shaper’ while also pointing out that India was ready to take the lead in bringing about the changeHe made the statement at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi.
Speaking on the vision for the Global South, he said, “We need to work on a new and ambitious agenda for the next 20 yearsWe must begin this process with our own internal working systemsWhile the BRICS presidency rotates annually, this should not disrupt our institutional momentumI propose the establishment of a BRICS continuity and implementation mechanismThis would enable the follow-up of all initiatives and outcomes through the ‘Troika’ arrangementWe could also create a secure digital repository to record the nodal point, timeframe, and implementation status associated with every decision.”
#WATCH | Delhi: During the BRICS Summit 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, “In formulating this roadmap, we must focus on three key aspects: Representation, Responsiveness, and Rule-makingRegarding representation, I would like to state that reform of the UN Security… pic.twitter.com/NKNqpXufCl
— ANI (@ANI) September 12, 2026
The summit saw China’s Xi Jinping and Russia’s Putin in attendance, along with heads of state including Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, among others.
He further said, “In formulating this roadmap, we must focus on three key aspects: Representation, Responsiveness, and Rule-makingRegarding representation, I would like to state that reform of the UN Security Council can no longer be postponedNegotiations on this matter must be linked to a definite timeframe and clear outcomesSimilarly, voting power, leadership positions, and policy priorities within financial institutions must align with today’s economic realitiesCountries that drive global economic growth should also play an appropriate role in shaping global economic governance.”
Speaking on the issue of Indian seafarers he further said, “Seafarers make a massive contribution to global trade, yet they often find themselves lacking support during difficult timesI propose that we establish a ‘Seafarers’ Emergency Support Network.’ This would connect the maritime authorities and diplomatic missions of relevant countries, facilitating assistance with distress alerts, medical aid, family notifications, and evacuations.”
PM Modi further said, “Domains such as AI, cyberspace, outer space, biotechnology, and critical technologies are not only shaping future opportunities but also defining future rulesWe must strive to transform the Global South from a ‘rule-taker’ into a ‘rule-shaper.’ Through BRICS, we can equip young diplomats and policymakers from Global South nations with negotiation skills, practical training, and legal expertise.”
